Bio-Inspired Light-Redirecting Window Blinds from Banana Pseudostem for Optimised Daylighting and Energy Efficiency

Efficient daylighting is a critical aspect of sustainable building design, yet conventional window blinds often compromise natural light distribution. Inspired by the fibrous structure of banana (Musa spp.) pseudostems, this study proposes a bio-inspired light-redirecting window blind concept that aims to optimise indoor illumination while reducing glare and energy consumption. The proposed blind design uses extracted banana pseudostem fibres formed into thin, semi-transparent slats, leveraging the natural fibrous microstructure of the pseudostem to diffuse and redirect incoming daylight. Based on the structural and optical properties of the material, the design anticipates improved light diffusion and a projected reduction in reliance on artificial lighting, creating adaptive, energy-efficient environments in both residential and commercial buildings. This paper presents the conceptual framework and prototype design, with empirical testing recommended as the next phase of investigation.
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Cite as: desci.ng.1308.2025
Uploaded on Jun 13, 2026, 12:15:06 AM
SustainabilityArchitectureBio-inspired designEnergy efficiencyPassive Design

Notes

Much of Africa produces large quantities of bananas and plantains, and the stem is almost always thrashed after harvest. At the same time, buildings across the continent rely heavily on artificial lighting and mechanical cooling due to hot, humid climates, putting pressure on already unreliable power supplies. This design concept turns that agricultural waste into a building material that could reduce lighting energy demand passively.

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